Manual lymphatic drainage
MANUAL LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
Manual lymphatic drainage is a massage technique used to treat lymphatic congestion in tissues. By stimulating lymphatic flow, it can relieve pain and inflammation.
BENEFITS
- Therapeutic
- Health promoting
- Cosmetic
The aim of lymphatic drainage is to transport the lymph through the lymph vessels, through the lymph channels to the lymph nodes and into the large veins in the neck.
The procedure has a relaxing and calming effect. Many patients fall asleep within minutes.
MAIN INDICATIONS
Manual lymphatic drainage is primarily used as an anti-edema therapy to treat swelling that may occur after injury or surgery. It is also essential for maintaining health and well-being during detoxification, fasting or relaxation.
Unlike classical massage, which uses pressure and stretching techniques, lymphatic drainage helps to relieve the body. The therapist uses gentle, rhythmic and slow movements to ensure a more sensitive approach to tissue treatment.
OTHER METHODS
In addition to manual lymphatic drainage, we offer a hardware method, available in the “Tightening Treatments – Depresso Fullskin Dermatonia” section.
Please note that Tightening Treatments are not covered by health insurance.
«Massage therapy is one of the most ancient and effective forms of treatment. Its action is based on natural mechanisms that have a regenerating and restorative effect.»
MANUAL OR HARDWARE LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
The choice between manual and hardware lymphatic drainage massage depends on the client’s individual needs, health and preferences. Both methods have their advantages and can be used separately or in combination to achieve the best results.
Hardware Lymphatic Drainage Dermatonia
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS OF LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
Lymphatic drainage also affects the muscles. When there is a lack of oxygen in the muscles, lactic acid accumulates, causing tension. Lymphatic drainage helps to speed up the removal of lactic acid, restoring muscle tone and strengthening the immune system.
PROBLEMS CAUSED BY POOR LYMPH FLOW INCLUDE
- Swelling in the face and limbs
- Pain when touching the skin
- General weakness and tiredness
- Rapid weight gain
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Frequent colds and skin infections
CAUSES OF SLOW LYMPH FLOW
- Lack of exercise
- Lack of water in the diet
- Consumption of large amounts of carbohydrates and foods with preservatives
- Bad habits
- Wearing tight shoes and clothes
- Stress
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE AND WEIGHT LOSS
Although lymphatic drainage does not directly cause weight loss, it can initiate and support the weight loss process through its ‘detoxifying’ effect, facilitating the removal of excess fluid from the body, which increases the urge to urinate.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
When lymphatic vessels are damaged or blocked, lymph accumulates, which can lead to tissue hardening and further impairment of lymphatic flow. Lymphatic drainage breaks the cycle of congestion, swelling and pain and promotes healing and recovery.
WHAT IS THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM?
The lymphatic system is a complex network of tissues and organs that play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis, removing waste from the body and protecting against infection and disease. The main components of the lymphatic system are the lymph vessels, lymph nodes and lymph organs.
WHAT IS LYMPH?
Lymph is a watery, slightly milky fluid that circulates in the lymphatic vessels and is formed from interstitial fluid because of plasma filtration through capillary walls. It acts as an intermediary between the closed circulatory system and the body’s cells. It collects excess tissue fluid and returns it to the bloodstream, preventing oedema. Lymph contains lymphocytes and other immune cells that fight infection and disease. It also carries lipids and fat-soluble vitamins absorbed in the intestines into the bloodstream.
LYMPH PRODUCTION PER DAY
On average, the human body produces 2 to 4 litres of lymph each day. This amount can vary depending on physical activity, health, hydration and metabolism. The lymphatic system plays a key role in maintaining homeostasis, immune defence and lipid transport, and maintaining its health is crucial to overall wellbeing.
FACTORS AFFECTING LYMPH PRODUCTION
Physical activity: Increased muscle activity promotes more lymph production and accelerates its circulation through the lymphatic system.
Hydration: The body’s hydration level affects the volume of interstitial fluid from which lymph is formed. Adequate water intake supports normal lymph volume.
Metabolism: High levels of metabolic activity can contribute to increased lymph production.
Health: Diseases and conditions such as infection and inflammation can affect the amount and circulation of lymph.
Diet: A proper diet rich in vitamins and micronutrients supports the normal functioning of the lymphatic system.
LYMPH CIRCULATION
Initiation of movement: Lymphatic capillaries collect excess tissue fluid, which becomes lymph.
Movement: Lymph moves through the lymph vessels thanks to skeletal muscle contractions, diaphragmatic movements during breathing, which act as the ‘heart’ of the lymphatic system, and the presence of valves in the vessels that prevent lymph from flowing backwards. Deep abdominal breathing and physical exercise improve lymph flow and relieve congestion.
Filtration: Lymph passes through the lymph nodes, where it is filtered and cleaned.
Return to the bloodstream: Purified lymph returns to the circulatory system through the thoracic duct and right lymphatic duct, which drain into the subclavian veins.
FREQUENCY OF USE
The frequency of treatments depends on the individual condition of the patient. To achieve optimal results, it is recommended that treatments are carried out at least twice a week in a series of 10 sessions. The duration of each treatment is 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the area and the goal of the therapy.
SPORTS TO STIMULATE LYMPHATIC FLOW
Low-intensity aerobic exercise such as swimming, cycling, yoga, Nordic walking, hiking, squats, push-ups, lunges, pull-ups and stair climbing effectively stimulate lymphatic flow.